Usually when I review a restaurant, my guest is the Baron or for those times when girlie time is in order, my friend Melissa joins me. But every now and then, Joel pulls up a seat to the table and it's a great way to see how a restaurant can also cater to the kiddies. Thankfully Joel has gotten his share of restaurant exposure and [for the most part] is well behaved. A recent experience we all had together was for brunch at a brand spanking new restaurant, ARTango Bistro. Located in the Ravenswood neighborhood on the north side of Chicago sits this beautiful restaurant that's full of culture and delicious cuisine...
ARTango Bistro is a combination of artistic expression and fresh Latin fare with unique ingredients. Our original take on South American cuisine will guide you through a thrilling journey of sights, colors, aromas and flavors.
Our menu features a combination of Argentine and Venezuelan heartiness and Peruvian spiciness with a fresh and healthy modern twist. We use fresh ingredients specific to the Southern hemisphere such as quinoa, mango, avocado, aji peppers, pears, and yams.
Menu highlights include arepas (Venezuelan corn flour buns stuffed with meat or veggies), empanadas, lomo saltado, Argentine-style steak, and eggs Benedict. We also offer Bristol Italian coffee.
ARTango is a place where you can enjoy tango music and dance and experience authentic Argentine culture. Tango gives us a chance to connect with another person...in embrace. ARTango is our own little Buenos Aires in Chicago where everyone can feel the heat of the milonga nights.
Our space is gracious yet edgy, modern yet rustic and was crafted and designed by local artists and architects. With exposed brick walls, a beautiful bar, and hand-crafted light fixtures and furniture, ARTango is a unique and artsy space. The walls are decorated with photographs, paintings, murals and installations by local artists.
We had the opportunity to enjoy their brunch and lunch items during our visit. Everything brought to the table was not only delicious but so beautifully presented. It's no wonder, considering the executive chef is Isaak Reyes, who comes from Bistrot Margot, a popular French restaurant in the city. He offers some creative plates that capture a sense of artistry that really elevates South American cuisine. Here are some dishes to try...
Quinoa Risotto Salad , Grilled Portabella Mushrooms
Assorted Empanadas
Tuna Tiradito
Arepa with Chorizo, Provolone Cheese, Aji Amarillo Mango Sauce
Tuna Ceviche
Grilled Salmon, Peruvian Purple Potato, Aji Amarillo Passion Fruit Sauce
Argentine Styled NY Strip Steak with Chimichuri Sauce and Roasted Potato
The restaurant also started offering a dinner service this weekend so definitely check it out! And if you're looking for a fun way to celebrate Thanksgiving with a night out, ARTango is offering a special Thanksgiving Prix Fixe holiday dinner menu, which is also BYOB friendly for $39/person... so reserve a table!
Course 1
Salad: Roasted Seasonal veggies, Arugula, Goat cheese croquets,
Candied walnuts and Balsamic Reduction
Candied walnuts and Balsamic Reduction
Butternut Squash Soup with Crispy Chipotle Beets
Assortment of Empandas (veggies, ham and cheese, beef)
Provoleta Grilled Provolone Cheese with Marinated Red Pepper and Olives
Course 2
Roasted Turkey Breast, Sweet Potato Cake, Green Beans, finished with Passion Fruit Sauce
or
Duck Breast and Duck Confit , Wild Mushroom Risotto finished with Fig Sauce
or
Mahi-Mahi , Quinoa Cake, Diced veggies, Pecans, Aji Amarillo Mango Sauce
or
Argentine Style New York Strip Steak, Roasted potato, Grilled Asparagus, Chimichuri Sauce
or
Filet Mignon , Caramelized Onions, Truffled Butter, Roasted Potato,
Grilled Red Pepper finished with Malbec Sauce
Grilled Red Pepper finished with Malbec Sauce
Course 3
Sweet Trio
Mango Flan Dry Fruits and Candied walnuts
Alfajores with Dolce de Leche
Pumpkin Cake with Whipped Cream
It really is great when you can enjoy good food, but not feel self-conscious about bringing your little man with you.
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